Haugesund is a city that offers a surprising variety of tours, thanks to its rugged coastal scenery, Viking heritage, and lively local culture. What makes Haugesund especially appealing to travelers is its manageable size and the ease of access to both nature and history through well-organized tours. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, cultural insights, or scenic exploration, Haugesund has something for every taste. We’re particularly fond of the RIB Safari because it combines excitement with wildlife spotting, like the elusive white-tailed eagle, and the Viking Farm tour for its hands-on historical experience. The city’s compact layout means many tours start right at the cruise port or nearby, making it simple to fit multiple activities into your day.
If you’re wondering which of Haugesund’s tours will suit your interests best, keep reading. From half-day sightseeing to full-blown Viking adventures, this guide covers the best options available. We’ve checked the reviews, prices, and what each tour offers, so you can plan with confidence. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Haugesund: RIB Safari to the island communities
At number 1, the RIB Safari offers an exhilarating way to see Haugesund’s coastal islands. For around $151 per person, this 2-hour boat trip combines speed, wildlife watching, and storytelling. You’ll start at KIS MARITIME AS, then cruise through the North Sea with a skilled and friendly driver sharing insights about the remote island communities and local marine life.
What makes this tour stand out is the thrill of the speed boat ride combined with the chance to spot sea eagles and other seabirds. The landscape here is striking, with steep islands and open ocean views. The tour includes a safety briefing, changing facilities, and lockers—no need to worry about your belongings. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the fun of seeing the scenery from a different perspective.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you crave adventure and want a close-up look at Norway’s coastal wilderness with a dash of wildlife. It’s especially good for active travelers and those wanting a memorable story to tell.
2. Haugesund: Highlights of the Region Half-Day Tour
At number 2, the Highlights of the Region Half-Day Tour delivers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture. Priced at $95, this 4-hour bus trip explores Karmøy island, including Skudeneshavn, St. Olaf’s Church, Åkrasanden Beach, and the copper mining town of Visnes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything without a full day commitment.
This tour is especially rich in historical detail, such as visiting the hilltop St. Olaf’s Church, which dates back to the Viking age. You’ll also learn about the copper that built the Statue of Liberty at Visnes. The quiet sands of Åkrasanden are a highlight, and Skudeneshavn charms with its maritime heritage. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the well-organized itinerary, with many noting the engaging storytelling and local flavor.
Bottom line: This tour suits history buffs and those who want a rundown of the region’s highlights with moderate walking and plenty of photo stops.
3. Haugesund: E-bike City Tour guided by the locals
Number 3 is the E-bike City Tour, a great way to see Haugesund’s key sights on a manageable 2-hour ride. For $88, you’ll cycle with a local guide through the city’s most iconic spots, including Harald Fairhair’s statue, Korsshaugen stone cross, and the impressive horse sculptures that seem to emerge from the water.
This tour shines because it blends history and art while allowing you to cover a lot of ground without excessive effort. The e-bikes make it accessible even if you’re not a regular cyclist. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into Haugesund’s Viking roots and modern development. Reviewers love the fun, relaxed pace, and the opportunity to capture excellent photos along the way.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a active yet relaxed introduction to Haugesund’s landmarks, especially if you enjoy modern art and Viking history.
4. Haugesund: 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus GrayLine
Number 4 offers a flexible way to explore Haugesund with the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus for $44. You can hop off at iconic sights like the Risøy bridge, the City Hall, Haraldshaugen, and the dock area, then hop back on at your leisure. The included audio guide enriches your experience, making it easy to learn about the city’s sights without a guide leading you.
Perfect for those with limited time or those who like to explore independently, this tour covers key landmarks at your own pace. The route is designed around cruise schedules, making it convenient for shore excursions. The reviews mention the ease of use and the value of having a narrated overview of Haugesund’s history and culture.
Bottom line: A good choice if you prefer a self-directed tour with the flexibility to control your pace and interests.
$44 per person
5. Haugesund: Guided Scenic Minibus tour of Haugesund
Number 5 is the Scenic Minibus Tour, a 1.5-hour ride for $78 that hits the highlights. Your local guide takes you past the National Monument to Harald Fairhair, the Rising Tides sculptures, and scenic viewpoints like Steinsfjellet. It’s a quick yet comprehensive way to get a feel for Haugesund’s landscape and history.
The tour is praised for its attentive guide and the scenic drives through the city. It’s best suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Haugesund’s main sights without much walking. The views from Stone Mountain are a highlight, and the guide shares stories that bring the scenery to life.
Bottom line: Ideal for those short on time but wanting a thorough overview of Haugesund’s key sights with great photo opportunities.
6. Haugesund: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Number 6 is another hop-on hop-off option, the City Sightseeing bus. It offers a full-day pass, allowing you to visit places like the Visnes Mining Museum and the docks at your own pace. The open-top bus makes for a fun way to see the city, with a well-planned timetable to match cruise arrivals.
This tour is especially good if you want to combine sightseeing with flexibility. It covers many of Haugesund’s top attractions and provides an audio guide that adds context. It’s suitable for families or travelers who want to explore the city without rushing.
Bottom line: Perfect if you prefer a comprehensive, flexible sightseeing experience with the convenience of hop-on hop-off.
7. Haugesund Viking Cruise – The Viking Farm and Viking Planet
Number 7 is the Viking Cruise, a 3-hour family-friendly adventure for $146. It combines a boat ride to the Viking Farm at Avaldsnes with a visit to the Viking Planet Museum. The boat trip is a highlight, letting you see the coast and learn about Viking life from a local guide.
This tour offers a hands-on experience, where you can see the Viking farm, learn about Viking history, and explore the museum’s interactive exhibits. It ranks high for its balance of outdoor adventure and culture, making it ideal for families or history buffs. One reviewer notes, “The Viking farm was very interesting, and the boat ride was inside and very pleasant, even on a rainy day.”
Bottom line: Great for Viking enthusiasts and families wanting a mix of boat, farm, and museum experiences.
8. From Haugesund: Karmøy and Norwegian Culture Shore Excursion
Number 8 is the Karmøy and Norwegian Culture Shore Excursion, a 4-hour guided bus trip for $126. It takes you through charming villages, including Skudeneshavn, and highlights local traditions. A stop at Lundin’s hotel offers cake and coffee, adding a welcoming touch.
This tour is good for travelers interested in local culture, small-town charm, and Viking history. The stop at the medieval St. Olav’s Church and the chance to see the birthplace of Viking kings give it a historical edge. The review mentions, “Visit to hotel,” showing how quaint and personal this experience feels.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a culture with scenic visits and local hospitality.
$126 per person
9. Discover Haugesund and visit a local mountain farmer
Number 9 offers a 3-hour immersive experience Discover Haugesund and visit a local mountain farmer. It includes panoramic views, a visit to Kringsjå farm, and tastings of apple cake and coffee. The tour also features stops at the National Monument and Rising Tides sculptures.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic experience that combines scenery, local food, and culture. The guide shares stories about the farm’s history and the region’s traditional way of life. A reviewer simply states, “Visit to hotel,” reflecting its intimate, personalized feel.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a peaceful, cultural day out with food tasting and scenic vistas.
$105 per person
How to Choose the Right Haugesund Tour
When selecting a tour, think about your interests and time constraints. If you thrive on adventure, the RIB Safari offers a fast-paced trip with wildlife encounters. Looking for a cultural and scenic overview? The Scenic Minibus hits key sights in a short time. Want flexibility? Both hop-on hop-off options give you control over your itinerary.
Budget travelers should consider the hop-on hop-off bus for its affordability and convenience. Families or history enthusiasts might prefer the Viking Cruise for its engaging mix of outdoor and indoor Viking activities. For those interested in local culture and authentic experiences, the Mountain Farmer visit offers a peaceful, scenic day with tastings.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Haugesund’s tours provide a diverse array of ways to experience this charming Norwegian city. Whether you seek outdoor thrills, Viking history, cultural insights, or scenic drives, you’ll find options that fit your interests and schedule. For a full day of adventure, consider the Viking Farm or the hop-on hop-off bus. For something more active, the e-bike or RIB safari is hard to beat. No matter what you choose, Haugesund’s hospitality and stunning surroundings will leave you with lasting memories.